Balance & Gait Training
Balance and mobility are essential for everyday activities, from walking and climbing stairs to standing for extended periods. Unfortunately, issues with balance and gait (the way you walk) can increase the risk of falls, leading to serious injuries and a loss of independence. At Iowa Ortho, our physical therapists specialize in balance and gait training to help patients regain stability, confidence, and mobility.
What Is Balance & Gait Training?
Balance and gait training is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on improving stability, coordination, and walking mechanics. This therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals recovering from injury, surgery, or neurological conditions that affect movement.
Who Can Benefit from Balance & Gait Training?
Balance and gait training can help patients experiencing:
- Frequent falls or fear of falling
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Weakness or instability when walking
- Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or stroke
- Recovery from orthopedic surgery or joint replacement
- Age-related balance decline
- Sports injuries affecting mobility
How Does Balance & Gait Training Work?
Our skilled physical therapists use a combination of techniques to improve movement and coordination, including:
- Strength & Stability Exercises – Strengthening key muscle groups, such as the core and legs, to enhance balance and support.
- Gait Retraining – Teaching proper walking mechanics to correct imbalances and prevent falls.
- Vestibular Rehabilitation – Helping patients with dizziness or vertigo regain their sense of balance.
- Assistive Device Training – Educating patients on the proper use of canes, walkers, or braces for added stability.
- Proprioception & Coordination Drills – Enhancing awareness of body position to improve movement control.
The Benefits of Balance & Gait Training
Patients who undergo balance and gait training often experience:
- Increased confidence in walking and daily activities
- Reduced risk of falls and fall-related injuries
- Improved posture, strength, and coordination
- Faster recovery after surgery or injury
- Greater independence and quality of life
What to Expect During Your Therapy Sessions
During your first visit, your physical therapist will assess your strength, flexibility, balance, and walking patterns. Based on the evaluation, a personalized treatment plan will be created to address your specific needs. Therapy sessions will include guided exercises, hands-on techniques, and education on how to prevent falls and improve movement.is crucial. Iowa Ortho’s physical therapy team works closely with patients and their doctor to guide every step of the recovery journey.